This first parsha of this new book of Vayikra begins with the varieties of sacrifices – korbanos – which is translated as “growing near.” These animal sacrifices are challenging for us today. Yes, the animals represent us, die for us, but which of these sacrifices talk to us today? One is called the peace offering, where all participate sharing the sacrificed food as equals, from the priest to the family and friends. May we find ways to be together. And another part of the process is salting all the sacrifices. The lower firmament, created on day two, wanted to participate in praise and appreciation of Hashem, and it being collected into the sea as a source of life, asked to be part of all the sacrifices, hence the salt.